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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

A. We meet every Monday evening (with the exception of bank holidays) at All Saints Church Hall, Petersfield Road, Winchester, SO23 OJD from 7.30 – 10pm.

In the run up to major competitions we may also have some extra coaching sessions at weekends.

Q. What type of songs do you sing?

A. We sing a wide range of songs from typical barbershop songs, pop and songs from the shows. Our repertoire includes up-beat numbers and ballads. Some of our recent favourites have included ‘One moment in time’, ‘When you say nothing at all’, When I fall in love, One fine day

Q. What is Barbershop Harmony?

A. Barbershop Harmony is simply a style of unaccompanied four-part singing with three parts harmonising with the melody line. One of the special features of the barbershop style is not just singing the notes but entertaining an audience by conveying the story and emotions of the song both vocally and visually. So you will never see us performing with music. This makes our singing so much more rewarding, enjoyable and fun.

Q. What Are The Four Voice Parts?

A. The four parts that make up the barbershop harmony are Tenor, Lead, Bass and Baritone.
The TENORS sing above the melody line and should be able to sing to Top G without any vocal vibrato.
The LEADS sing the melody line (the tune) which usually has a mid vocal range starting from just below Middle C (G) to the D an octave above Middle C.
The BASS line has the lowest range with the lowest note being the D below Middle C.
The BARITONES have the same vocal range as the Leads – some members think they sing the left-over notes! But this part is often the most interesting and challenging.

Q. Do I need to know how to read music?

A. No. Many of our members cannot read music. You will normally be given a teaching CD of all your notes so that you can learn it by ear. You will also have a copy of the music so that if you can read music, you can choose which way to learn. Obviously it does speed the learning process if you can read music, but it is not vital.

Q. Do I need to have previous experience of singing in a group or choir?

A. No. That is not essential. What is required is the ability to sing in tune and to be able to hold your part, when others around you may be singing something different. However, when you begin you will stand near people who are singing the same notes as you, to allow you to grow in confidence.

Q How long will I need to wait before joining?

A. If, after coming along for a few weeks, you decide you would like to become a member, we will ask you to have a simple audition. This takes the form of singing a piece of music which is regularly sung by the Chorus (so you will have had plenty of practice at it) together with 4 other members of the Chorus in private, so you are not doing it alone. Hopefully, having successfully completed the audition you will then wish to become a fully-fledged member of The Tudor Roses.

Q. Will I need to practice in between rehearsals?

A. Yes. You will be expected to learn your notes between rehearsals either from a teaching CD or by following your music. This means that we can make the most of our rehearsal time. Each of the four voice parts has a section leader who will also be able to help you. Sometimes members of your section will get together to practice in between rehearsals.

Q. I’m not sure how often I would be able to attend rehearsals, will this be a problem?

A. Although we realise that members may not be able to make every rehearsal during the year (e.g. due to holidays and work commitments) we hope that everybody will love the singing, achievement, fun and friendship of our rehearsals and so will not want to miss one!

Q. Do you pay regular membership fees?

A. Yes. However the first 4 rehearsals are free. After that (once you have passed your audition) you will be asked to pay a regular monthly subscription by standing order. This will cover the costs of your membership of our national organisation (LABBS), hall hire, music, coaching at weekly rehearsals and with guest educators and refreshments together with the general running expenses. The current fees are £25 per month. From time to time, you may also be asked to contribute to other costs such as transport/accommodation for competitions.

Latest News

We are looking for a new Musical Director!
We are looking for a dynamic, collaborative and motivational MD with proven musical expertise and experience.

2018 Come and sing with us!

We are having a free Sing into Spring event for 6 weeks starting on Monday 9th April at All Saints Hall, Petersfield Road, Winchester, 7.30 till 9pm.

Booking is essential. Contact Helen on 07881 623483 or email: join@tudorroses.co.uk, if you are interested.